| "Aternative solutions to the growing energy crisis other than
alternative energy. "Green" technology and energy solutions are all the
rage as global warming, rising populations and unheard-of oil prices
confront the world. However, asks Zehner, "do we have a society capable
of being powered by alternative energy?" His answer is no. With thorough
research, the author demonstrates that no amount of solar panels, wind
turbines, biodiesel, nuclear plants or "clean" coal will solve these
global problems. The underlying issue is not the lack of energy or a new
way to generate it but overconsumption of available energy and
resources. Zehner proves that many of today's "green" solutions would be
prohibitively expensive on a grand scale and/or cause more
environmental damage than good. The author examines "some ideas that,
hopefully [will] spur some thought into how we might practically move
from material and energy consumption to more durable and meaningful
forms of social growth and well-being." These ideas include the creation
of more "walking communities," cities in which the basic needs of
citizens can be reached on foot or by bicycle. He also advocates
"advancing the rights of women and girls," since contraceptive education
is just one part of the puzzle of population explosion, and he suggests
the creation of a "Department of Efficiency," which would be
responsible for reducing the rampant waste of energy. "America has
plenty of energy--more than twice as much as it needs," he writes. "We
just waste most of it." By offering readers numerous steps toward
reaching attainable goals, Zehner hopes environmentalists will initiate a
shift of focus to "women's rights, consumer culture, walkable
neighborhoods, military spending, zoning, health care, wealth
disparities, citizen governance, economic reform, and democratic
institutions." A bold look at the downside of green technologies and a
host of refreshingly simple substitute solutions" (Kirkus Reviews) |
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